With the income requirements for several energy saving programs increasing, Southern California Edison (SCE) encourages its customers to check out these programs so they can save money on their utility bills.

Starting June 1, the maximum-allowable income requirements for the California Alternate Rate for Energy (CARE) and the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) programs have increased. The CARE program can save customers about 30 percent on their utility bill, while FERA provides a lower monthly discount for income-qualified households of three or more based on their energy usage.

“We want to ensure that our customers know about the various programs that can help reduce costs and save them money,” said Jack Parkhill, SCE manager for the Income Qualified and Economic Assistance Program. “With the income criteria increasing, more of our customers may be able to meet the requirements and qualify for one of the programs.”

To learn more about other income qualified programs, visit SCE at www.sce.com/billhelp or call 1-800-655-4555. The new income guidelines for the CARE and FERA programs starting June 1 are listed below:

Household Size CARE FERA

1 $22,980 Not eligible

2 $31,020 Not eligible

3 $39,060 $39,061-$48,825

4 $47,100 $47,101-$58,875

5 $55,140 $55,141-$68,925

6 $63,180 $63,181-$78,975

7 $71,220 $71,221-$$89,025

8 $79,260 $79,261-$99,075

Each Additional $8,040 $8,040-$10,050

With the summer approaching, SCE also encourages customers to take a proactive approach in reducing bills with these simple tips:

• Reduce your energy use on hot summer days between 2 p.m.-6 p.m., when demand reaches its peak.

• Set thermostats no lower than 78 degrees when it is hot.

• Use electric fans instead of air conditioning when practical.

• Close drapes and blinds to keep out direct sunlight during hot periods.

• Use appliances such as dishwashers and clothes dryers during morning or evening hours.

For more ways to save energy and money this summer, visit www.SCE.com/CoolSavings. Customers can also get summer savings and efficiency tips via our Twitter feed and Facebook page.